Public warned of heavy traffic, security checks at Marina Bay area on New Year's Eve

PHOTO: The New Paper

SINGAPORE - With large crowds expected at the Marina Bay area on New Year's Eve next Thursday, police officers, auxiliary police and security officers will be deployed to ensure the safety and security of the public.

In a statement on Thursday (Dec 24), the Singapore Police Force (SPF) also warned that heavy traffic in the area is expected on the day for the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown (MBSC) 2016, and urged members of the public to take note of the safety, security and traffic arrangements that will be put in place.

The safety and security arrangements may include checks on bags and personal items, and members of the public are urged to notify the nearest police or auxiliary police officers if they come across any suspicious-looking persons or articles.

The police also advised members of the public to be vigilant amidst the festivities by looking after belongings and valuables at all times, being wary of pickpockets, staying close to friends and moving around in groups, and avoiding contact with unruly crowds.

"Women are advised to be vigilant against opportunists who may commit molest in crowded areas," SPF added.

The number of people entering into The Promontory, One Fullerton, Esplanade Park, the Esplanade Waterfront Promenade, the Marina Bay Sands Promenade will also be regulated to prevent overcowding.

In addition, people will not be allowed to congregate on the footways along the Esplanade Bridge and Bayfront Avenue along the Helix Bridge, while the Benjamin Sheares Bridge footway will be closed from 6pm on Dec 31 to 1am on Jan 1.

Road closures

Meanwhile, a number of lanes and roads in the area will also be closed to vehicular traffic on the day.

The traffic direction on the stretch of Temasek Avenue between Raffles Boulevard and Raffles Avenue, in the direction of Bayfront Avenue, will also be reversed between 11.30pm on Dec 31 and 1.30 am on Jan 1 to facilitate crowd disposal.

Auxiliary police officers will be stationed at all affected road junctions to regulate traffic and assist motorists, and traffic advisory signs will also be put up.

The police also reminded the public that enforcement action will be taken against errant motorists who park their vehicles in peripheral roads, or stop their vehicles along the East Coast Parkway to watch the fireworks are strictly prohibited.

"As heavy traffic and delays are expected, the understanding and co-operation from the public are much appreciated," SPF said.

Members of the public may contact the event hotline at 6828 8377 or visit the MBSC 2016 website for enquiries.